Lions HC Dan Campbell delivers emotional message on Jameson Williams' looming suspension
Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams is facing a suspension after violating the league's performance-enhancing substance policy. This will be the second time the receiver is suspended after he served a four-game suspension last year for violating the NFL's gambling policy.
Lions coach Dan Campbell spoke about this situation on Wednesday, saying that the team is ready to be without Williams but showing his support to the player after his second suspension.
"Here’s what I can tell you is, I trust this kid. I trust him," Campbell said. "And unfortunately, you got to pay for your sins and if something happens and if this comes down, so be it. But I know this, we’ve dangled a rope down on the way up, we can’t wait for anybody, and over a year ago he started climbing his way up and he got to us and maybe he lost his grip, but he’ll climb back up again.
"That rope’s still there, it's tied to us and he’ll be just fine. But he’s part of this team and I trust him."
Williams is facing a two-game suspension and is reportedly not going to appeal the sanction. The Lions are one of the best teams in the NFL (5-1) and a strong candidate to win the Super Bowl next year. Losing Jameson Williams is painful, especially after his breakout season.
They already missed a key player in Aidan Hutchinson against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6 and losing another important asset could hurt them.
Jameson Williams shined in the 2023 season with the Lions
The Detroit Lions were one of the biggest storylines in the 2023 NFL season, making it to the playoffs as the NFC North champions and going all the way to the NFC Championship game where the San Francisco 49ers beat them to advance to the Super Bowl LVIII.
Jameson Williams played 12 games in 2023 after being suspended four games by the league. Playing under Amon-Ra St. Brown, Williams caught 24 passes for 356 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns. His performance in the playoff was notable too, grabbing six passes for 79 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in three games.
Despite the impending suspension, Dan Campbel remains confident in the wide receiver. The Lions will clash against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday to try to improve to 6-1.